December 2, 2004 OTTAWA -- Defence Minister Bill Graham, and the Chief of the Defence Staff, General Ray Henault, have announced details on how Canadians can send greetings to Canadian Forces (CF) personnel deployed overseas. "Throughout the year, and especially during the holidays, many Canadians want to express their support for our deployed troops," said Minister Graham. "Posting an electronic message is a simple, quick, and cost-effective way for Canadians to acknowledge the efforts of the approximately 1400 Canadian Forces members who are currently serving overseas." "The CF is making a difference around the world by contributing to 17 international missions," General Henault explained. "I know how much it means to Canadian Forces members to receive encouraging messages from Canadians back home, throughout the year and especially during the holiday season." Canadians are encouraged to post messages on the Department of National Defence's (DND) electronic "Write to the Troops" message board. To post an electronic message, visit the website ( www.forces.gc.ca ) and click on the " Write to the Troops " button located on the main page. Individuals who cannot access the Internet can send postcards to "any CF member." Mailing addresses for postcards can be obtained by telephoning the DND/CF General Inquiries line at (613) 995-2534. Due to security requirements, the CF cannot accept sealed letters or parcels that are not addressed by name, rank, and unit, to specific CF members. -30- For further information: The "Write to the Troops" Electronic Message Board [ Backgrounder - December 2, 2004 ] The "Write to the Troops" Electronic Message Board
